Barran Press
On Sunday, September 29, 2024, the American Center for Justice (ACJ) reported a significant crackdown by the Houthi movement in areas under their control, leading to the arrest of hundreds of citizens celebrating the anniversary of the September Revolution. Among those detained are lawyers, political leaders, and human rights activists across the governorates of Ibb, Hodeidah, Dhamar, Sana'a, and Amran.
In a statement shared with Barran Press, the ACJ expressed concern over the deteriorating state of freedoms in Yemen, highlighting the repressive measures taken by the Houthis to prevent public celebrations of the revolution's anniversary. The organization condemned the ongoing persecution of individuals attempting to commemorate the event.
The ACJ noted that the Houthis have falsely accused dozens of detainees of forming cells linked to aggression and destabilizing security in the country. They have threatened to use force against anyone attempting to gather or march under any pretext, reflecting a broader policy of silencing dissent and suppressing freedom of expression.
In recent days, the Houthis have intensified their presence in the streets of controlled areas by deploying military vehicles and armed personnel, including plainclothes individuals, to chase down celebrants and stifle their expressions of opinion.
The American Center for Justice asserted that such actions violate the Yemeni constitution, particularly Article 48, which guarantees citizens the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and Article 42, which affirms freedom of thought and opinion. These actions also contradict Article 58, which provides citizens the right to form political and civil organizations.
Furthermore, the ACJ emphasized that these violations are inconsistent with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Yemen is a party, notably Article 19, which protects the right to freedom of expression, and Article 21, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly. Article 9 of the same covenant prohibits arbitrary detention and guarantees the right to a fair trial.
The organization stressed that the actions of the Houthis represent a blatant violation of these fundamental rights and an attempt to impose a systematic policy of terror against civilians through the use of force and intimidation. These violations contradict Yemeni constitutional provisions and international laws, constituting a crime that warrants accountability.
The ACJ called on the international community and human rights organizations to exert pressure on the Houthis to cease all forms of repression against Yemenis, to release all detainees immediately, and to ensure citizens can express their opinions and participate in national celebrations without fear or threat.
Additionally, the center urged the Houthis to stop using force and intimidation against civilians and to adhere to both international and local laws that protect human rights, particularly the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.